Sr. Plumbing Fire Protection Engineer

About Us

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee‑owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We design lasting solutions for pressing challenges across a variety of industries, including data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high‑rise buildings, clean energy, education, and Our expertise in structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and other disciplines is complemented by strong business development, human resources, finance, IT, and marketing teams.

The Senior Plumbing / Fire Protection Engineer is a key technical leader responsible for directing the design of plumbing and fire protection systems across all phases of building projects—from concept to construction completion. This role independently drives engineering solutions, supports project teams, partners with clients, and upholds the firm's standards for technical excellence.

• Lead the design and detailing of plumbing and fire protection systems, ensuring accuracy, coordination, and compliance with QA/QC standards.
• Perform and review engineering calculations in accordance with office standards, including hydraulic calculations for protection systems.
• Design system components such as:
  • Fire protection systems (wet, dry, pre‑action, deluge).
  • Plumbing systems and equipment.
  • Medical and laboratory gas systems.
• Listen to client needs and develop value‑driven solutions considering performance requirements, first cost, and life‑cycle cost.
• Communicate design recommendations through meetings, presentations, written correspondence, and technical discussions.
• Maintain regular contact with clients to support long‑term partnerships and repeat business.
• Conduct site observations, gather field data, and interact with contractors during design and construction phases.
• Collaborate within integrated, multidisciplinary teams and coordinate with mechanical, electrical, structural, architectural, and other disciplines.
• Evaluate design alternatives and support development of technical deliverables.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies, materials, and design methods through continuing education.
• Mentor junior engineers and designers, providing technical guidance and oversight.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Fire Protection Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Professional Engineering (P.E.) license preferred or ability to obtain.
• 8+ years of experience in plumbing and fire protection system design.
• Demonstrated ability to independently lead engineering tasks and mentor others.
• Strong proficiency performing and reviewing hydraulic and plumbing calculations.
• Experience with AutoCAD, Revit, and hydraulic modeling tools.
• Excellent communication, organization, and client‑facing skills.

Travel to project sites may be required on an occasional basis—estimated 25–50% of the time.

Location:

Buffalo, New York & Rochester, New York.

The expected base salary range for this role is $87,360 – $120,000 USD per year, with performance‑based bonuses and a comprehensive U.S.

-based benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Wellness programs and employee assistance resources.
• Professional development and continuing education support.

Salas O’Brien provides employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability‑related needs of applicants as required by law.

Salas O’Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.

Salas O’Brien is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the “Know Your Rights” notice from the Department of Labor.